If you are a parent, you have most likely come across the continuous debate over the term “organic” and what to get into your child’s body. But, what about organic versus non-GMO?

A recent study from Perrigo Nutritionals revealed that more than half of moms do not know that organic is not GMO by nature.

So what is the real difference? Organic is all the time non-GMO, but, unlike non-GMO, products labeled organic also guarantee:

* Not using toxic pesticides or chemical/synthetic fertilizers.

* No antibiotics or synthetic hormones, artificial flavours, colorings or preservatives.

* Support for organic farming practices and animal health and welfare.

* Regulated by the federal government under the USDA.

“It’s important to understand the differences between these labels so you can make the right nutritional decisions for your family,” says Jessica Turner, bestselling author and founding father of the blog Mom Creative.

Looking beyond the non-GMO label does not must be an all or nothing approach, particularly since buying all organic ingredients can add up. As a mother of three, Turner believes the following products are worth shopping for extra organic, not just non-GMO for your child.

Baby food

When a child starts eating solid foods, many organizations recommend going organic in terms of the “dirty dozen,” such as apples, peppers, peaches, etc., to avoid pesticides. Buying baby food? Make sure you look for the USDA Certified Organic label, not just a non-GMO certified label, to avoid all of those chemicals.

milk

Milk is a nutritional powerhouse in terms of nourishing your child with vitamin D, calcium and protein, but sometimes it contains ingredients that are not very good. Organic milk brands don’t have any antibiotics, synthetic hormones, toxic pesticides, or GMOs. Going organic also supports a better life for the cows as they’ve access to pasture.

Baby formula

The Perrigo Nutritionals study said 43 percent of mothers bought organic food for their babies when they started eating solids, but only 10 percent bought organic formula. So why not go organic for your baby from the start? Choosing an organic brand may be worth the extra investment as it will make sure you keep away from pesticides and hormones.

Skin care

Skin care products, such as lotion, diaper cream, shampoo and soap, are absorbed into the baby’s bloodstream. Since their skin is more porous than that of adults, products from organic/natural lines may be worth buying extra to make sure your child is exposed to the smallest amount of chemicals.

In the end, if you are not sure, go for organic because organic is all the time non-GMO, plus it’s. For more information on organic versus non-GMO, visit www.choose-organic.com.